J. Crew and model respond to criticism over 'wrong' hairstyle

J. Crew apologizes after being accused of not understanding how to style black hair.
(Reuters)

J. Crew is being attacked on Twitter for a photo featuring a black model with "irresponsibly styled" natural hair.

The photo on J. Crew’s website shows a model with a “messy bun” wearing a sweater-dress. Atlanta-based makeup artist Dae Louise took issue with the styling of the model’s hair and tweeted out, “J.Crew…girl…ya’ll wrong,” which has since gone viral with over 10,000 retweets and 400 comments.

Others, meanwhile, have defended the brand, saying that all of J. Crew’s models are sporting the same “messy” look. Some users even posted photos of other women in J. Crew catalogues with similar hair style.

Since the criticisms have gone viral, both J. Crew and the model represented in the photo have responded.

J.Crew strives to represent every race, gender, and background. We sincerely apologize for the styling of this model and the offense that was caused. We assure you that we are taking steps to address it, and to prevent this from happening again.

J. Crew apologized on Twitter, writing, “J.Crew strives to represent every race, gender and background. We sincerely apologize for the styling of this model and the offense that was caused. We assure you that we are taking steps to address it, and to prevent this from happening again.”

While Merihenny, the model in the photo, took a different stance and defended the look.

“Dear all, this attention is flattering :) but the concept of the brand specifically is to show that clothes can be comfortable[,] wearable and naturally beautiful. So the natural hair and makeup fits right in. Also these days it is all about women embracing their natural looks so here it is! We as human beings are never satisfied with what we get [and] we always want more and still complain! Anyways…thank you for the positive comments!”